Founded in 1919, the Algonquin Round Table brought together a dozen influential minds who regularly lunched at The Algonquin Hotel. This iconic literary circle debated everything from cultural trends to political events.
The Algonquin Hotel
Long before hashtags and viral threads dominated online conversations, there was the Algonquin Round table. In 1919,a group of sharp-witted creatives—writers,actors,playwrights,and humorists like Dorothy Parker,Noel Coward,and Alexander Woollcott—began gathering at Manhattan’s Algonquin Hotel.What began as an informal lunch at two square tables soon evolved into a daily ritual at a round table where ideas flowed as freely as the conversation.
“What started as an impromptu lunch (at two square tables pushed together; the round table came a year later) proved to be such delicious fun that the group returned at 1 p.m., and practically every day thereafter, inviting new lunch companions, until it dissolved in the early 1930s,” noted Jennifer Ratner-Rosenhagen in the new York Times. Though the group disbanded nearly a century ago,its legacy continues to inspire.
Fast forward to today,and The Algonquin Hotel is once again at the center of cultural dialogue. Now part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, this historic Times Square landmark has undergone a six-month restoration, rekindling the spirit of its storied past. In September, the hotel launched a series of events that pay homage to the Round Table, inviting modern-day media personalities and influencers to gather and create in the same iconic space.
The initiative began with YouTube’s Rap Dads Show, which now calls the Algonquin home. The podcast “Soberness” with Cat Greenleaf, hosted by the former Talk Stoop presenter, has also found a welcoming space at the hotel. This revival of creative energy ensures that the Algonquin remains a hub for innovation and artistic expression.
As the Round Table once sparked conversations that shaped culture, today’s gatherings at the Algonquin aim to do the same, blending the nostalgia of a bygone era with the dynamism of modern media. It’s a testament to the enduring power of thoughtful dialogue and the timeless allure of a place that has always been more than just a hotel.
nestled in the heart of New York City, The Algonquin hotel has long been a sanctuary for the creative and the curious. Known for its storied history as the gathering spot for the legendary Algonquin Round table in the 1920s, the hotel is once again stepping into the cultural spotlight with its new series, “Mics of the Round Table.” This initiative aims to bring together modern-day poets, lyricists, and other artists for thought-provoking discussions on their creative processes and the cultural narratives thay shape.
In its proclamation, The Algonquin described the series as a continuation of its historical legacy. ”The intersection of these different art forms will lead to powerful, thoughtful discussions about creative processes and the larger cultural narratives each guest is shaping,” the hotel stated. “Just as the original Algonquin Round Table was a hub for literary voices that shaped their time and were part of New York City’s social fabric, this new series will aim to carry that torch forward with modern-day poets and lyricists.”
Though the concept of a hotel hosting a culturally relevant podcast isn’t groundbreaking, its timing feels especially apt. In today’s fragmented media landscape,where a single idea or celebrity rarely dominates the conversation,The Algonquin’s effort to create a space for diverse voices is refreshing. The podcast serves as a reminder that meaningful dialogue can still thrive in a physical setting, provided all voices are given a seat at the table.
Beyond its cultural contributions, The Algonquin has also cemented its reputation as a bastion of luxury. In 2005, the hotel made headlines with its $10,000 martini, which came with a diamond ring at the bottom—a move that became one of the earliest viral stories on social media. In 2010, it became the first New York hotel to join the Autograph Collection, and after an $18 million renovation in 2012, it earned AAA Four Diamond recognition.
Among its luxurious offerings, the John Barrymore Suite stands out as a crown jewel. Described as “the greatest hotel room in New York City,” it has hosted countless luminaries over the years, further solidifying the hotel’s status as a cultural and historical landmark.
With “Mics of the Round Table,” The Algonquin is not just preserving its past but actively shaping its future. By fostering conversations among today’s most influential artists, the hotel continues to be a place where creativity and culture collide, proving that some traditions are timeless—especially when reimagined for a new era.
Discover the Iconic algonquin Hotel: A Timeless New York Experience
Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, the Algonquin Hotel stands as a testament to New York City’s rich cultural history. Among its many treasures, the second-floor suite has earned its place as one of the city’s most luxurious accommodations. Spanning 655 square feet, this opulent space features a sunken living area and a separate sleeping quarters, offering both comfort and elegance.
Perched directly above the hotel’s famed Blue Bar, the suite boasts oversized windows that provide a breathtaking view of 44th Street. This vantage point not only immerses guests in the vibrant energy of the city but also serves as a front-row seat to the ever-evolving cultural tapestry of New York.
“Called it the greatest hotel room in New York,”
This phrase, often echoed by visitors, captures the essence of what makes the Algonquin’s suite so extraordinary.It’s more than just a room; it’s an experience that blends history,luxury,and a deep connection to the city’s pulse.
Beyond its unparalleled accommodations, the Algonquin Hotel has long been a gathering place for writers, artists, and thinkers. Its storied past includes hosting the legendary Algonquin Round Table, a group of witty intellectuals who shaped American literature and humor in the early 20th century. Today, the hotel continues to inspire creativity and conversation, making it a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals alike.
Whether you’re seeking a luxurious retreat or a cultural immersion, the Algonquin Hotel offers a unique blend of both. Its central location, combined with its rich history and impeccable service, ensures that every stay is unforgettable.
For those who wish to capture the essence of New York City, there’s no better place to start than the Algonquin. Its second-floor suite isn’t just a room—it’s a gateway to the heart of Manhattan.
